Michael F. Gates

Michael F. Gates, 74, Easton, Kansas, died Sunday, February 24, 2013, at his residence.Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, February 28, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Church, Easton, KS, with Father Mathew Francis as celebrant. Interment will follow in the St. Lawrence Church Cemetery. A parish and Knights of Columbus rosary will be recited on Wednesday, February 27th at 5:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to Maur Hill-Mount Academy and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.Michael was born July 17, 1938, on the family farm in Easton, Kansas, the son of Michael F. and Emma Zelfer Gates. He attended elementary school in Easton #6 one room schoolhouse and then graduated from Maur Hill Prep School in Atchison.Michael was engaged in farming all of his life. He was member of St. Lawrence Church in Easton and Knights of Columbus Council # 723. He enjoyed watching Benedictine basketball, and Notre Dame football. He was a John Deere Equipment enthusiast. His love was farming and he took great passion in going out and checking his cows with his grandson by his side. Survivors include a son Mike Gates, Easton, KS, a daughter, Kathleen "Kate" (Chris) Pennington, Lansing, KS, two brothers, Leslie Gates, Easton, KS, David Gates, Easton, KS, two sisters, Mary Margaret Ruhlman, Atchison, KS, Virginia Giller, Manhattan, KS, and a grandson Tyler Gates. He was preceded in death by two daughters, Ellen Gates and Louise Gates.